Donna Marie Mulligan

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Donna Mulligan (née Obenauer), who peacefully passed away on March 21, 2025, in Barnegat, NJ, surrounded by her loving family. Born on October 30, 1956, in Newark, NJ, Donna grew up in Newark before moving to Cliffwood in 1966. She attended St. Joe's School, St. John Vianney High School, and later graduated from Matawan Regional High School in 1975.
In 1978, Donna met the love of her life, Paul Mulligan. The couple married on March 28, 1979, and were blessed with two daughters, Diona in 1980 and Julia in 1988. They built their family in Old Bridge before moving to Browns Mills in 2009.
Donna's summers were filled with joy at Frog Hollow, where she cherished many seasons on the hill, forming lifelong friendships, sharing endless laughter, and creating treasured memories. She also served as secretary on the board, dedicating her time to the community she loved.
Her passion for family and friends was evident in the countless gatherings she hosted to celebrate life's special moments. Donna cherished any opportunity to be with her loved ones. Though not known as the family chef, she found immense joy in sharing her signature dishes with those around her.
Donna's interests were as vibrant as her personality. She had a deep love for Mickey Mouse, Rod Stewart, Bingo, seafood, shopping, and never missed a chance to watch the Hallmark Channel.
She is predeceased by her beloved parents, Mathias and Cecelia Obenauer, her husband Paul Mulligan, and her cherished daughter Diona Mulligan.
Donna leaves behind her loving daughter and son-in-law, Julia and Matthew Freeman, who were devoted to her. Her grandchildren, Damien and Cecelia, brought her great joy, and she loved spending time with them doing crafts, shopping, and baking. Donna is also survived by her siblings, Matty Obenauer, Dara Markette (Tony), and Davina Chevalier (Hank), as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who will carry her memory in their hearts forever.
Donna's warmth, laughter, and love for her family and friends will be deeply missed, but her spirit will live on through the countless lives she touched.
Family and friends are invited to Aftercare Cremation Service, 241 Bordentown Avenue, South Amboy, NJ 08879, Tuesday, March 25, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM for a celebration of Donna's life.
Cremation is private. Donna will be laid privately to rest at a future date along side her late husband Paul Mulligan at the William C. Doyle Veterans Cemetery, Wrightstown, NJ.